Tried-and-True Methods to Break Your Kids’ Screen Addiction
Lay down the law. Once you decide on time limits,
Every parent knows they should limit their children’s screen time, but accomplishing it is far easier said than done. Kids love their devices as much as adults and would happily spend hours glued to their electronics if we let them. Fortunately, we’ve discovered some tried-and-true methods for parents to prevent bad habits. Establish time limits. Every parent must determine the right amount of screen time for their kids, but it helps to know what experts recommend. The American Academy of Pediatrics says screen time should be strictly limited to video calls for children under 18 months, children 18 to 24 months should only watch high-quality programming with an adult, and kids aged 2 to 5 should watch no more than one hour daily. After that, the science gets a bit fuzzier, but most experts agree that less is best.
implement them ruthlessly. You can set most tablets to automatically turn off after they’ve been viewed for a set amount of time each day. Once time is up, it’s up — and using someone else’s tablet is unallowed. Furthermore, ask questions about what your kids are viewing and playing and use strict parental controls to ensure they only access age-appropriate content. Create screen-free zones. Specific times and places should always be off-limits for screens. A prevalent rule involves no screens and food together; eating should be mindful, and dinner should be family time. Experts also recommend no devices for one hour before bed. You might also consider requiring your kids to look away from screens and make eye contact while talking to someone. Other decrees could
include tablets not leaving the car once you arrive at a destination or no devices while guests visit. Be a good role model. Yes, you’re the parent, and no one can tell you how much time to spend on your phone. But children quickly adopt what they see. When the adults around them are always glued to different electronic devices, it makes the habit seem even more attractive. Reducing screen time will benefit your health and ability to connect with your family. Limiting your use in front of your kids specifically will show them you practice what you preach.
THIS 6-YEAR-OLD MARVEL FAN BECAME A REAL-LIFE SUPERHERO
Every kid dreams of being a superhero, but Bridger Walker was the rare 6-year-old who acted when he was needed. In 2020, the young Marvel fan learned that being a hero requires sacrifice but also comes with great rewards. Bridger’s story started when he and his 4-year-old sister visited a friend’s house. The friend told the two that one of the dogs in the backyard was “mean.” So when a dog came barreling at his sister, Bridger bravely stood in front of her and “kept moving” to block the dog’s path.
shield. “Iron Man” actor Robert Downey Jr. also sent a video message, promising Bridger a special surprise on his next birthday. The “Spider-Man: No Way Home” cast stepped up the most. Tom Holland, who plays Spidey himself, made a live call to speak with Bridger. Then, he and co-star Zendaya invited him to visit them on set. The two made good on their promise in late 2021, and Bridger had the time of his life. The crew even helped him perform a mock stunt with Holland in full costume. Bridger got to swing through the air with Spider-Man! Bridger has mostly stayed out of the limelight since, but he was doing well when People magazine caught up with
The dog latched onto Bridger’s cheek, creating a disfiguring injury requiring a two-hour surgery and 90 stitches. But none of that mattered to the 6-year- old as long as his sister was safe. When Bridger’s father asked him why he stepped in front of the dog, he said Bridger responded, “If someone had to die, I thought it should be me.” Bridger’s incredible actions went viral. Once celebrities learned that Bridger loves Marvel movies, they jumped into action. Chris Evans, who plays Captain America, recorded a special message of praise for Bridger and sent him an authentic Captain America
him in 2021. He has undergone several reconstructive surgeries to reduce the attack’s visible legacy. Still, his father reports Bridger doesn’t want the scar to disappear entirely.
“Bridger views his scar as something to be proud of, but he also doesn’t see it as being
representative of his brave act,” his father explained to People. “He just perceives it as, ‘I was a brother, and that’s what brothers do.’”
2 • WWW.GREATSMILESNJ.COM
Published by Newsletter Pro | www.NewsletterPro.com
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator